Paddling Paws Canine Hydrotherapy


Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy simply means ‘therapy in water’. It is one of the oldest forms of rehabilitation and is now becoming increasingly popular for the rehabilitation and care of dogs.​
Hydrotherapy is a gentle, reduced weight-bearing treatment in warm water that can help dogs of all sizes, ages, and activity levels to recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, or maintain overall wellness. In a safe, supportive environment, dogs can engage in customized sessions to help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and boost their quality of life.
Who Benefits from Hydrotherapy?

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Dogs with arthritis or joint pain:
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Hydrotherapy is ideal for dogs experiencing pain and stiffness, as it reduces the impact on joints and muscles, allowing dogs to exercise comfortably in a weightless environment.
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Dogs recovering from surgery or injury:
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For dogs healing from orthopedic surgery, such as ACL repairs, or injuries like fractures or muscle tears, hydrotherapy supports rehabilitation, helping them regain strength and range of motion safely.
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Senior dogs:
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Older dogs often have reduced mobility and increased joint pain, which can make traditional exercise challenging. Hydrotherapy offers a gentle, enjoyable way for seniors to stay active, reducing stiffness and pain.
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Obese or overweight dogs:
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Hydrotherapy is an excellent form of low-impact exercise that allows overweight dogs to shed pounds without straining their joints, supporting a healthier lifestyle.
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Benefits of Hydrotherapy

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Pain Relief
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The buoyancy of water reduces joint pressure, allowing dogs to move with minimal pain, which is especially helpful for conditions like arthritis and hip dysplasia.
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Improved Mobility and Flexibility
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Hydrotherapy exercises gently stretch muscles, helping dogs improve their range of motion and flexibility while preventing further injury.
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Increased Muscle Strength and Endurance
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Water resistance exercises help dogs build muscle and endurance without placing stress on their joints. This is beneficial for dogs recovering from surgery, seniors, and canine athletes alike.
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Weight Loss
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Hydrotherapy offers an effective way for dogs to burn calories safely, making it ideal for overweight or obese dogs who may struggle with traditional exercise.
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Enhanced Circulation and Cardiovascular Health
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Swimming and other water-based exercises improve blood flow and cardiovascular health, promoting healing, better oxygenation, and overall wellness.
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Mental Stimulation and Relaxation
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Hydrotherapy is often calming and enjoyable for dogs, reducing anxiety and providing an enriching experience that can help relieve stress and improve mental well-being.
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Did you know?
Low Impact, High Reward
Did you know that hydrotherapy can help dogs burn up to four times more calories than walking on land? The water's natural resistance gives dogs a great workout without straining their joints, making it perfect for weight loss and conditioning.
Who can benefit from hydrotherapy?
Orthopedic Conditions​
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Cruciate surgery or injury
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Medial patella luxation surgery or conservative management
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Elbow dysplasia- conservative management, post-surgical management, arthritis management
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Hip dysplasia- conservative management, post-surgical management, arthritis management
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Shoulder instability
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Fracture repair
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Arthritis
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Spondylosis
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Polyarthritis
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Limb amputation
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Ligament repair
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Arthrodesis
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Senior pets with weakness, poor mobility
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Neurological Conditions​
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IVDD- surgical or conservative management
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FCE
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Degenerative myelopathy
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Polyradiculoneuritis
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Polyneuropathy
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Wobblers
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Degenerative neurological conditions
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Brachial plexus injury
This is Luna
She suffers from luxating patellas, hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis, and is managing conservatively with hydrotherapy.

Book an Appointment
Interested in hydrotherapy?
Get in contact to see how hydrotherapy could benefit your dog.
Call: 0405278097
Email: madi@paddlingpaws.com.au